Project description: A Proposal to clarify and refine the land use and urban character of the multi functional coastal strip in front of the neoclassical center - the most iconic seafront of Finnish capital. Over past decades, rough transit zone of passenger harbour used to cut off natural connection between the urban core and the sea. New pedestrian quays join the historical Market place and enable continuous promenade in and around the whole inner city. To make a harmonious addition to the existing cityscape, the quays form a horizontal mega structure incorporating new fast ferry terminal and new cultural facilities with landscaped public space. New mixed-use blocks surrounding the quay make a landing for the existing downtown blocks and observatory hill, emphasizing the idea of the whole South harbour bay as a grandiose amphitheater of urban life.

Location: Helsinki, Finland
Size: 132.450 sqm (total gross building area)
Project phase: competition
Year of the project: 2011
Authors: Aarne Niemelä, Eva Prelovšek Niemelä

AWARD
Project was selected into Upper class selection (15 best projects besides the main awards) among 201 competition entries.